Portable Sparks Reactions After Performing Ritual by the River

Controversial street singer Portable has once again stirred conversation online after sharing a video of himself performing what appeared to be ritual rites by a river.

In the viral clip, the “Zazoo Zeh” crooner was seen tying a white wrapper around his waist while throwing fruits into the flowing river, seemingly as an appeasement to the gods. He later went further to wash his head inside the river using a local sponge and soap, a move that has drawn mixed reactions from fans and critics alike.

While some social media users viewed it as a cultural or spiritual practice, others questioned why a public figure of his influence would openly showcase such acts.

Opinion: Between Culture, Faith, and Celebrity Influence

Portable is no stranger to controversy, but this recent act raises an interesting conversation about the intersection of culture, spirituality, and entertainment in Nigeria. In many communities, river rites and appeasement rituals are age-long traditions rooted in culture and belief systems. Yet, when a celebrity performs such acts openly, it inevitably invites wider scrutiny.

On one hand, Portable may argue he is simply embracing his roots and expressing his spirituality in a way that feels authentic to him. After all, cultural practices remain part of Nigeria’s diverse identity. On the other hand, being a public figure means his actions carry weight—especially with a younger audience that looks up to him.

In a society where religion, culture, and modern entertainment often collide, Portable’s actions reflect the tension between personal belief and public perception. Should artists be free to showcase their spiritual practices without judgment, or should they be more cautious given their influence?

Regardless of where one stands, one thing is clear: Portable knows how to spark conversation and keep himself in the spotlight—whether through his music or his actions. And maybe, just maybe, that’s part of his genius.